An Overview of Database Administration

Information technology professional Duane Wardell most recently worked as a database programmer and analyst with the Memorial Hermann Healthcare System (MHHS) in Houston, Texas. For more than 15 years, Duane Wardell has specialized in Oracle and INGRES database administration.

At the most basic level, database administrators store and organize data using specialty software. Database administrators often deal with important business-related information, such as customer shipping records and financial information. Depending on the nature of the business, database administrators may make certain information available to customers, while limiting the availability of other information to internal staff members only.

In addition to storing and organizing data, database administrators must be able to access specific information in an efficient manner. Database administrators must also take steps to protect data from unauthorized access, often collaborating with computer and information systems managers to implement the appropriate security features.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 15 percent of database administrators today work in computer systems design and related services, followed closely by information and educational services, especially in the management of companies and enterprises and for insurance carriers. To become a database administrator, individuals must typically have an undergraduate degree in computer science or management information systems.